CNA Classes & Programs in Oak Ridge, Tennessee
Get Information from CNA Programs in Oak Ridge and Nearby
Oak Ridge offers 1 CNA program for those pursuing a career as a nursing assistant. As a city recognized for its scientific history and vibrant community, Oak Ridge gives aspiring CNAs a chance to access training close to home. Students can take advantage of free CNA classes, making entry into the field more accessible for local residents interested in healthcare roles.
The available CNA program in Oak Ridge helps students gain practical skills and prepares them for Tennessee state certification. Local healthcare employers include two hospitals and two nursing homes, providing employment opportunities after completion of training. In the Knoxville metro area, which includes Oak Ridge, CNAs earn around $35,240 annually—slightly above the statewide median salary—according to BLS OEWS (May 2023).
Graduates of CNA programs in Oak Ridge are positioned to enter the workforce with essential knowledge and skills. With the presence of multiple healthcare facilities in the city, certified nursing assistants have several options for starting their careers locally.
Quick Facts About Oak Ridge
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Population31,535Residents
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CNA Programs1State-approved Programs
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Median Income$67,152Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$16.94Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$35,240Median Annual Salary
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Facilities4CMS Healthcare Facilities2 Nursing Homes • 2 Hospitals
Get Information from CNA Programs in Oak Ridge and Nearby
Schools in Oak Ridge and nearby are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.
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Browse CNA Classes in Oak Ridge
Oak Ridge provides 1 free CNA training program that prepares students for Tennessee certification and registry placement. This CNA program enables participants to build job-ready skills and meet state requirements for employment as a certified nursing assistant, addressing local demand for CNAs. The training is structured to support exam success and help graduates pursue rewarding careers within Oak Ridge’s healthcare sector.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Oak Ridge through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: not available in Oak Ridge but are offered in other cities throughout Tennessee.
Online programs not available in Oak Ridge but are offered in other cities throughout Tennessee.
NHC Healthcare, Oak Ridge
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Oak Ridge
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$35,240Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$16.94Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs3,130CNA Positions
In the Knoxville region, approximately 3,130 CNAs are employed across a range of healthcare settings. This regional demand demonstrates consistent opportunities for individuals pursuing careers as certified nursing assistants in East Tennessee, including CNA jobs in Oak Ridge. CNAs in this area often find positions in both hospitals and long-term care facilities serving a diverse patient population.
CNA salary in Oak Ridge is represented by data from the Knoxville metro area. In this region, CNAs earn around $35,240 per year (approximately $16.94 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This figure is slightly higher than the statewide median salary of $34,850, indicating compensation levels that exceed the state median.
Major local employers include Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge, an acute care hospital with emergency services and a birthing-friendly designation, and NHC Healthcare, Oak Ridge, a 128-bed nursing home operated as a for-profit corporation. Diversicare of Oak Ridge also stands out as a significant facility with 120 beds serving long-term care needs. These CMS-certified facilities anchor healthcare employment options available to newly certified CNAs in Oak Ridge.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Oak Ridge? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Loudon, Oneida, Crossville, Corryton, and Clinton, or browse the Tennessee CNA programs page for more options.
Working in Other States
Planning to move or gain experience working in other states? Use our reciprocity guide to transfer your existing CNA license across states.
Working Through Agencies or as a Travel CNA
If you're already certified and would like to work through an agency or work as a travel CNA, browse here our directory of CNA agencies or simply fill out this short form to get matched with 3 personalized CNA agencies that can help you land your next job.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Oak Ridge (2 facilities)
2 nursing homes in Oak Ridge providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Oak Ridge (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Oak Ridge offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Methodist Medical Center Of Oak Ridge
Facility Details
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Oak Ridge, TN
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Oak Ridge, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Tennessee. These include completing a Tennessee Department of Health–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), passing the state competency evaluation administered by D&SDT–HEADMASTER, and being listed on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 75 total hours of training (classroom, lab, and clinical combined)
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- Passing both the knowledge and skills exams within 24 months of completing training (up to three attempts per section)
- Criminal background check required before patient contact
- Placement on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry maintained by the Tennessee Department of Health
Once certified, you can work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living centers, and home health agencies throughout Oak Ridge and across Tennessee.
Already certified in another state? You may qualify for reciprocity to transfer your certification into Tennessee without retraining or retesting. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Tennessee guide.
For full details on training, testing, certification renewal, and maintaining an active listing, see our step-by-step CNA License & Registration in Tennessee guide.
Career Growth & Advancement
Many CNAs use their experience as a stepping stone toward advanced healthcare careers:
- Specialized certifications (e.g., dementia care, medication aide)
- Promotion into shift supervisor or training coordinator roles
- Bridge programs to become an LPN or RN
- Opportunities in healthcare administration or education
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Oak Ridge
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Oak Ridge?
Most CNA programs in Oak Ridge can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule.
How much does CNA training cost in Oak Ridge?
Tuition typically ranges from $800–$1,500, though may be higher depending on the program. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Oak Ridge?
Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in Oak Ridge?
Several schools offer hybrid options with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-weeks CNA classes in Oak Ridge?
Yes, some schools in Oak Ridge or nearby areas may offer accelerated CNA programs that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Oak Ridge there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Loudon, Oneida, Crossville, Corryton, and Clinton. You can also look at the Tennessee state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Tennessee CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Tennessee, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Tennessee CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Oak Ridge?
CNAs in Oak Ridge are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. Many also use their CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Information Accuracy: Requirements, salary data, and other information are carefully compiled and based on the latest available sources, but may change. Please verify with official sources before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, let us know.